8 Natural Remedies and Practices to Keep the Flu at Bay [Slideshow]

Incorporate More Zinc

Zinc is an strong ally of your immune system. It helps facilitate the production of white blood cells and can reduce and alleviate cold and flu symptoms. It slows disturbances in the bloodstream from multiplying in the body.

Ingest it via supplement form or by consuming whole foods such as shellfish, chickpeas, red meat, dairy, eggs, nuts, and seeds. 

Consume Echinacea 

This herb is also adequate support for your immune system. It contains antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that help to support healthy function.

Research has found that it can reduce the chances of cold-related illness by at least 58 percent, as well as duration by 1.4 days. Consumption is most common in supplement form. 

Get Your Fluids in 

Water is king when it comes to flushing toxins, but extra fluids should be considered when trying to avoid the flu.

Integrate ultra-hydrating fluids like coconut water, fresh natural juice, warm broths, watery veggies like lettuce, celery, cucumber, or watercress. Make sure to fill up on fluids consistently throughout the day. 

Don't Skip Out on Rest

Getting a sufficient amount of sleep is critical for avoiding illness. Getting in the right amount of z's ensures that your body is up to date on regeneration and resetting from the impact of daily life. Alternatively, a lack of sleep lowers the strength of your immune system. 

Tea, Always

Herbs are a reliable friend when it comes to taking care of the body, but especially when trying to prevent the flu. They contain impactful antioxidants that support a healthy immune system. Try mixtures that incorporate ginger, olive leaf, basil, nettle, dandelion, lemon, or green tea. However, most herbs and spices contain benefits for your immune system, so feel free to mix it up. 

Just avoid having more than four cups a day, as too much tea (like anything else) can be harmful. 

Use Essential Oils 

To reap the full benefit of essential oils in preventing flu-related symptoms, application matters. Use them sparingly as they tend to be potent, and make sure to purchase from a reliable source. Menthol, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, chamomile, bergamot, and rosemary are GR8 staples. 

Some essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy but note that you should consult with your physician before doing so. 

Sanitize as You Go 

This one we all know, but everyone can use a reminder. Unless you're terribly afraid of drying out your hands, (Aloe can help with that), there is no such thing as over-cleansing.

Use antibacterial soap and alcohol-based sanitizers for your best defense against the flu. Make sure to sanitize throughout your day as you go in and out of public.

Take in Probiotics 

These babies aren't just for boosting your pet's immune system, they can support yours as well. They stimulate the production of necessary antibodies that work to fight off illness and increase the level of immune cells in the intestines. 

Ingest them in supplement or whole food form.